Doping cloud over Bok hooker

The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) would not comment on reports that Springbok Mahlatse Ralepelle tested positive for a banned substance in France.

SuperSport reported on its website that Ralepelle, who is currently recovering from a knee injury, was tested out of competition.

His A sample reportedly contained traces of drostanolone, an anabolic steroid often used in bodybuilding.

"In the case of the recent positive doping result by Chiliboy Ralepelle, we are not able to provide factual comment on this case as it was conducted outside of South Africa, in France, and is handled by the French Anti-Doping Agency," said SAIDS Chief Executive Khalid Galant.

"We can confirm that the substance in question drostanolone is a banned anabolic steroid which is listed in the WADA 2014 Prohibited List."

The French daily L'Equipe reported at the weekend that Ralepelle was under investigation and his club, Toulouse, had been told of the positive test.

However, it is likely Toulouse President Rene Bouscatel said the club would presume Ralepelle innocent of "intentionally consuming the substance", unless it was proved otherwise.

He said it might have formed part of medication he was given to recover from knee surgery.